In this heartfelt episode of Live Well Bipolar, Paris shares the exciting news of expecting a baby girl in February 2026. Reflecting on the journey since finding out on June 24th, she discusses the initial surprise, the ultrasound experience and the special ways she shared the news with family.

She delves into her personal journey with bipolar and pregnancy, addressing initial fears, particularly regarding medication, and the immense support from her community and healthcare professionals.

The episode also includes her thoughts on embracing the present moment, overcoming fears, and preparing for motherhood while living with bipolar. She offers to share more insights and experiences via Instagram and encourages listeners to connect and ask questions.

Connect with Paris here! 00:00 Exciting News: We're Having a Baby!02:19 The Journey Begins: Finding Out and Sharing the News07:51 Navigating Pregnancy with Bipolar Disorder11:40 Support Systems and Overcoming Fears16:27 Reflecting on the Journey and Future Plans25:35 Final Thoughts and Gratitude

Jessie Bucci-Carter is a mental health advocate, regional manager at a mental health nonprofit supporting youth mental health advocates and a rescue dog lover, foster, and volunteer who shares her compelling journey living with bipolar.

Together we explore Jessie's early experiences with mental health struggles, including panic attacks and depression during her teenage years and her subsequent diagnosis of bipolar at 22. She reflects on the profound impact of supportive relationships, especially with her family and wife, and discusses the significance of cultivating a strong community.

Jessie also highlights the importance of prioritizing mental health through non-negotiable practices like sleep, sobriety, therapy and medication. Additionally, she passionately details her work with Bring Change to Mind, a nonprofit organization supporting mental health awareness clubs in schools and how her lived experience fuels her dedication to her role. Jessie's story is one of resilience, advocacy and the transformative power of support and self-care.

Stay connected with Jessie here!

Learn to support someone you love who lives with bipolar here! 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:54 Jessie's Early Experiences with Mental Health03:21 First Manic Episode and Diagnosis08:16 Support Systems and Relationships13:43 Navigating Life with Bipolar Disorder18:34 Jessie's Career in Mental Health Advocacy27:40 Reflecting on Mental and Physical Health31:34 Living Well with Bipolar Disorder35:38 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this week's episode of Live Well Bipolar, Paris welcomes Ashley Dutta, an artist, writer and mother with 15 years of experience in foreign policy, communications and technology, most recently at Microsoft.

Ashley shares her story of living with bipolar II, ADHD, PMDD, and anxiety. She discusses her late diagnosis at the age of 41 and the implications it had on her life, career, and self-identity.

After being impacted by severe burnout, Ashley also shares how she managed her mental health having experiences working in high-stress environments. The conversation delves into her coping strategies, her creative pursuits and her journey towards self-compassion. Ashley emphasizes the importance of mental health awareness, community support and finding joy through creative expression.

Connect with Ashley here!

Learn how to support the one you love who lives with bipolar here! 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction02:02 Ashley's Initial Experience with Bipolar03:01 Late Diagnosis and Initial Reactions04:57 Living with Bipolar: Highs and Lows06:40 Hypomania and Its Impact10:03 Seeking Help and Diagnosis15:17 Post-Diagnosis Reflections and Research16:50 Navigating Misdiagnosis and Career Challenges17:42 Struggles and Support in the Workplace21:00 Transitioning to a New Career Path24:51 Embracing Creativity and Wellness29:33 Reflections on Diagnosis and Self-Compassion32:05 Living Well with Bipolar34:30 Conclusion and Staying Connected